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Ocean Independence, a leading brokerage house headquartered in Küsnacht, Switzerland, has introduced a new role within its management team, appointing André Mahr as chief operating officer. Mahr joins the company from A-Rosa Cruises. Additionally, Toby Maclaurin has been promoted to chief commercial officer, having previously served as sales & charter director for 16 years.

As COO, Mahr will focus on operational excellence. IT, banking and a solid support structure as well as an expanded QMS will play an important part of the role. The COO will guide and assist administration and support team members in ensuring that all sales & charter consultants and yacht managers have a robust infrastructure.

André Mahr, a German national who has been based in Switzerland since 2019, brings extensive maritime experience, having held senior roles at AIDA Cruises, Costa Crociere, and Carnival Corporation. His previous roles included establishing operational management for Carnival’s fleet in Shanghai and setting up the operational fleet for A-ROSA in Switzerland.

Peter Hürzeler, CEO of Ocean Independence, says: “André brings a wealth of experience to our team, with a strong background in operational leadership. We believe that his previous roles have equipped him with the skills and insights needed to help us achieve our ambitious goals. We see this as an important step in our strategic development, strongly benefiting the business and, as a result, all who work for Ocean Independence. I am positively thrilled about this significant new addition to our leadership team.”

André Mahr adds: “I am delighted to be joining the management team of such a global player in yachting and I am sure that my skills and my professional career in the maritime sector will help the company to continue on its growth path.”

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